Lucia A New Afro-Caribbean Culinary Escape in the Heart of LA
In the heart of Los Angeles, specifically in the vibrant and culturally rich Fairfax District, a new dining destination offering Caribbean flavours has quietly made its debut. Situated in the Heart of LA, it’s called Lucia , and it’s the brainchild of hospitality entrepreneur Sam Jordan, known previously for his work at LA’s Issima restaurant and Oakland’s Kissel Uptown Hotel.
But Lucia isn’t just another restaurant it’s the result of a three year labor of love. During that time, Jordan and his team worked to create something truly different: a place that blends modern design with authentic Caribbean flavors, bringing underrepresented cuisine into the spotlight in a fresh and stylish way.
Interior Design That Feels Like a Caribbean Dream
The experience begins the moment you step inside. The interior was imagined by Alexis Readinger from LA based Preen, Inc., who managed to capture a seductive, contemporary version of Caribbean charm.
- The entrance : You’ll notice the door handle shaped like a snake, followed by a golden mirrored vestibule that sets the tone.
- The central bar : Made of white terrazzo, it’s surrounded by three towering verdigris palm sculptures by local artist Guerin Swing.
- The overall vibe : Rich textures, warm tones, and thoughtful details make every corner feel intentional like a dream you don’t want to wake up from.
Despite its elegance, the atmosphere is far from stiff or overly formal. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick drink or settling in for dinner, the space feels welcoming and alive.
The Menu: A Modern Celebration of Caribbean Flavors
At the heart of the culinary vision is Chef Adrian Forte , originally from Jamaica. His menu reimagines Caribbean cuisine through a modern lens while staying deeply rooted in African diasporic traditions.
The kitchen leans heavily on traditional techniques, especially jerk seasoning but not just any jerk. They use pimento wood chips imported directly from Jamaica, giving dishes a deep, smoky aroma that instantly transports you to the islands.
Must-Try Dishes:
| Category | Standout Plates |
|---|---|
| Starters | – Beef Patties (spiced meat pies) – Saltfish & Fig Croquettes |
| Mains | – Jerk Dry-Aged Tomahawk Steak – Coconut Fried Chicken served with Trini Mac Pie |
| Desserts | – Sweet Potato Sticky Pudding – a must-have |
Each dish tells a story, whether through its ingredients, preparation method, or presentation. This isn’t just food it’s a celebration of culture and tradition, plated beautifully. restaurant in LA
Drinks: Local Spices Meet Island Spirits
Behind the bar, Beverage Director Melina Meza brings her own flair to the Caribbean theme. She uses native fruits and spices from places like St. Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago , paired with high-quality Caribbean rums.
Signature Cocktails:
| Drink Name | Key Ingredients | Why Try It? |
|---|---|---|
| Oxtail Old Fashioned | Bourbon washed with oxtail, sweet potato, cane sugar, Creole & Angostura bitters | Smoky, savory, and unlike anything you’ve had before |
| Caribbean Spiced Mojito | Mint, sugarcane, lime, island spices | Refreshing, bold, perfect with appetizers |
| Tropical Rum Punch | Caribbean rum, tropical fruit juice, simple syrup | Classic with a twist — always a crowd-pleaser |
The wine list also deserves a mention, featuring bottles from South Africa and selections from Red Bear Winery in Sonoma, which Jordan co founded with his father.
Location and Hours
- Address : 351 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
- Hours : The kitchen stays open until 2 AM , making it a great late-night option in the area.
Final Thoughts
Lucia isn’t just another trendy spot in LAit’s a meaningful attempt to redefine Afro-Caribbean cuisine in a market that’s always looking for something new and exciting. From the stunning interior to the thoughtfully crafted menu, it’s clear that Jordan and his team have created something special: a blend of passion, artistry, and professionalism that feels both fresh and familiar.
✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight
From a professional design standpoint, what stands out about Lucia is how the space transforms from a simple dining venue into a sensory Caribbean dream. The design goes beyond aesthetics it dives deep into the culture and soul of the place. By blending natural materials with local artistry, the project shows a genuine understanding of place-making. Lucia reminds us that great design isn’t just about visuals; it’s about creating an environment that speaks to the senses and makes visitors feel truly immersed in a distinct identity. We recommend visiting restaurant in LA
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